North Country Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, R, Black River, and several members of the Assembly Republican Conference are sponsoring bills to address their concerns with the Concealed Carry Improvement Act (CCIA) that took effect Sept. 13.

The CCIA requires a background check for all transactions involving firearms and ammunition. Since its implementation, gun shop owners and gun license holders throughout New York state have expressed concerns with the costs and inefficiency of the legislation.

“My office and I spent the last two months visiting local gun shop owners and answering calls from frustrated constituents. As a representative of the North Country and Mohawk Valley, when it comes to firearms it's not just a hobby, it's a way of life. I’ve listened to everyone's concerns and coordinated with my Republican colleagues to fight against these injustices,” said Blankenbush.

He said among the numerous bills drafted, Blankenbush sponsors measures to repeal background check fees for gun and ammunition purchases, remove excessive licensing requirements, permit judges or magistrates to defend themselves and others in the courtroom if danger arises and permit licensed wildlife hunters to purchase ammunition without contacting the statewide license and record database.

“Albany Democrats are projecting their fears onto the entire state. Their lack of control over crime in their own districts has pushed them toward radical policies that infringe on our rights. I will continue to fight every day for the rights of lawful gun owners,” said Blankenbush.